Do You Have the Right to Rock?
By Eleadah Clack
We have all heard on numerous occasions the voice of our principal, Mr. Miller, reminding some students to "unplug yourself." People listening to MP3 players and iPods are the target of Miller's harassment. Students who have just walked into the building to start their day get iPods taken, even before they have time to put it away. To witness the snatching causes one to feel sympathetic toward the student, because no one is exempt.
Why is it necessary to pester students who are otherwise good students who follow all the rules except the iPod rule? Music is part of everyday culture. By taking away the culture of a people you cripple their ability to learn and be productive.
We all know the rule is that students should not bring iPods to school at all. This rule is extremely unfair considering the students who have activities after school, or those who ride the bus. After school is a time when the iPod rule is dismissed. If a student is not even allowed to bring their iPod into the building, they won't have it for after school activities.
For those who ride the bus, public or school mandated, iPods and MP3 players are often a source of refuge from their surroundings. Taking that protection away from the student leave them susceptible to negativity around them, which can affect the rest of their lives. Besides creating a barrier between the student and his or her negative surroundings, iPods help some people concentrate during class. Teachers who allow iPods in class while students are doing individual work are greatly appreciated.
Mr. Miller tells students that the reason the iPod rule was implemented was for safety reasons. I have never seen someone attacked by an iPod or MP3 player. If our security cannot defend the students against iPod attacks then that is another issue.
On the other hand, iPods can be distracting to students, and are easily stolen. Many people have had iPods and other music devices taken while on Duval property. This may be the main reason that Miller has implemented a no-iPod policy. To prevent the theft of your belongings it would be best not to bring them to school in the first place. Someone who has their iPod stolen is held responsible for the theft because they broke the rules.
Although the no-iPod policy is slightly unreasonable, it should be taken seriously. If you need to bring your iPod to school, leave it in your locker so it doesn't get stolen. If your iPod is stolen or taken by a teacher, take responsibility and accept the punishments of your actions.
By Jennifer Partridge |
March 10, 2009; 7:33 PM ET
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